To the editor:

In response to your article concerning the funding and building of the port that will allow for direct importation of fruit across the Port of Virginia (“USDA program benefits port’s perishable importers,” Feb. 27), I think this is a huge and great accomplishment. As someone that grew up in Southeastern Virginia and knowing all about the importation and exportation of goods the area does, it is nice to see that area wanting to grow and expand beyond being the leading vegetable exporter.

Good importation and exportation, such as importing and exporting fruits and vegetables, is such a lucrative business, and oftentimes the fact that it is profitable can be the main force that drives a business to expand in the way that they do. I see and appreciate that in this case, it is more than making more money.

I appreciate the bringing of the cost the consumers have to pay down. It helps those consumers that may be barely able afford to buy these products. Knowing where our fruits and vegetables come from and the process of those products getting to our grocery store shelves is something that I also value. Overall, I think this is a great step towards making our region even better.

Erika Williams

Suffolk